Rafael A. “Ralph” Diaz Sr., age 65, of Knox, passed away Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at Northwest Health Laporte Hospital following a brief illness. Rafael was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico to Miguel Diaz and Maria Laboy. He had worked for many years in customer service and liked to stay busy. He loved woodworking and really anything that involved working with his hands, earning the nickname “Mr. DIY”. Ralph was remembered for being able to make friends with everyone he met and many times repeating life stories about himself and his family. He was also a Veteran, having served in the United States Air Force. He is survived by his wife, Luz “Lucy” Diaz, his children, Rafael Diaz Jr. (Christy) of Westfield, Indiana, and Leilanie Calkins (Ethan) of Knox, brothers and sisters, Miguel Diaz of Sylacauga, Alabama, Maria Johnson of Sylacauga, Alabama and Angel Diaz of Chicago, a step-brother Charles Brettin (Elizabeth) of North Judson, and two grandchildren, Sofia and Alex Diaz. He was preceded in death by his father, Miguel Diaz and his step-father, Matthew Brettin and a step-brother, Jayson Brettin.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 1:30pm (CT) at Victory Christian Church.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of Rafael A. "Ralph" Diaz, visit the Tribute Store.
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2655 S. Range Rd.
Knox, IN 46534
